- Plan your shopping trip about 3-4 weeks before the start of term to ensure you get lots of choice but, hopefully, your child will not have had another growth spurt
- Try to avoid Saturdays and other busy times
- Get feet measured by a trained shoe fitter for length and width
- Choose easy-to-fasten shoes for younger children
- Choose leather uppers to allow the feet to breathe
- Avoid slip-ons, rather choose lace-ups, straps or Velcro as these act like a seat-belt, keeping the feet secure
- Avoid ballet pumps as these do not give support
- The heel area should fit exactly without being too tight or too loose
- The toe area should allow the toes to move and not be squashed at the sides
- Allow about a finger width’s space between the toes and the end of the shoe for growth
- Heels should have a broad base and be low for young children, no higher than 4 cm for older children
- The arch area should be supportive
- Wear new shoes in the house first to make sure they do not hurt or rub
- Trainers are generally good for the feet but not for everyday wear as they do not allow the feet to breathe
- Avoid wearing plimsolls all day
- Football boots generally need to be a size bigger but again, it is important to get your child’s feet measured to be sure
- Finally, it is always a good idea to check your children’s feet and shoes regularly for blisters, cuts, infections, etc. and watch-out for any growth-spurts!